Changing The World
“Changing The World” was created as part of the Russian Federation’s Bid for Expo2025. I was among a small group of 20 international artists to each paint a life-size Matryoshka doll.
The face behind “Changing The World” was to Mother Nature. Painted in black and white to represent people from all colour, ethnicity and religion and to unite us as humans.
The green globe represents the world and the possibilities for innovations and a better life for the future. The majority of the doll is painted in different shades of blue and white to mimic what the earth looks like from space. Sometimes we might not see the entire view of the world as it can often be clouded but that that passed.
There are a few honeycomb designs scattered on the doll to represents the importance of biodiversity in our world. The flower in Mother Nature’s hair represents the beauty in life that is often staring us in the face, but still we look pass it. The honeycomb and flowers are all made from upcycled aluminum coffee capsules.
I wanted every person that looked this doll to think about Mother Nature and think about how the choices we are making today is affecting her.
The doll was first exhibited at the Sustainable Plaza in Sustainable City, Dubai. The second exhibition was on the embarkment of the Seine in Paris, France where all the dolls stood proud ahead of the announcement for the Exp2025. Before they all returned to their final home in Ekaterinburg , Russia.
Title: “Changing The World”
Dimensions: 1800mm x 1000mm x 1000mm
Medium: Mixed Medium (Nespresso Capsules, acrylic paint and Fiberglass mould)
About the author, Mariska
Hi, I’m Mariska – podcast host, artist, sustainability advocate and consultant, and storyteller driven by a deep passion for our planet. Sustainability isn’t just a topic I discuss; it’s a way of life I embody through my work, actions, and everyday choices.
My journey began several years ago when I started experimenting with trash as a medium in my artwork. What began as creative curiosity quickly turned into a deep dive into the environmental impact of waste. That curiosity expanded into a broader connection with nature—including a life-changing trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, where I found both clarity and purpose. It was there that I made the decision to leave the corporate world behind and commit fully to environmental work.
In 2018, I took that message public in the UAE by wearing every piece of trash I generated for 30 days. The result—65 kilograms of waste—sparked national conversations around sustainability and waste reduction. That bold experiment also became the catalyst for my podcast, Mama Earth Talk, where I’ve since connected with global thought leaders to explore sustainability and inspire meaningful action.
Over the years, I’ve collaborated with organizations such as Nespresso, Costa, and Dubai International Airport to implement practical and impactful environmental solutions. From optimizing waste management systems to leading awareness campaigns, I specialize in designing strategies that create real, lasting change.
My artwork—blending environmental advocacy with creative expression—has been collected by public figures including comedian Trevor Noah, environmentalist Adrian Grenier, entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk, radio host Kris Fade, Grammy Award-winning DJ Black Coffee, and NBA player Mason Plumlee. Through public speaking, podcasting, and art, I aim to inspire individuals and organizations to rethink their relationship with the environment.
With over a decade of international experience in design and project management across Australia, South Africa, the UK, India, and the UAE, I bring a unique mix of creativity and strategic insight to sustainability challenges. My global perspective allows me to collaborate across cultures, drive innovation, and empower others to make a meaningful impact.
As a lifelong learner and passionate advocate, I focus on practical, holistic solutions to environmental challenges—guided by systems thinking and a deep commitment to action. I hold a BA in Design, a postgraduate degree in Environmental Science, and a Master’s in Sustainable Design.